RCMP respond to series of shootings in Merritt area Tuesday

UPDATE (9:35 a.m.): Earlier Tuesday morning, the Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) distributed a statement via social media warning community members to stay inside and lock their doors due to the ongoing incident.

At about 8:30 a.m., LNIB updated the statement to say the RCMP had informed the band there was no longer a threat.

“We are actively investigating what happened,” said Sgt. Josh Roda in a news release. “We do not believe there is any further risk to the public and will have a significant police presence in these areas as we move forward with the investigations.”

EARLIER: Merritt RCMP are warning the public of a major police presence in the community related to a series of early morning shootings.

In a brief statement, Sgt. Josh Roda says RCMP were alerted to multiple shootings between 5:00 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. Tuesday (Nov. 15). The shootings are believed to have taken place in Merritt, on the Coldwater reserve and in the area of Mamette Lake Road.

Roda goes on to say all the incidents are believed to have been targeted.

It’s not known if anyone was injured.

Roda says residents should expect to see a major police presence in the respective communities as the incidents are investigated.

On social media, School District 58 says the incident is not related to schools and all schools are open Tuesday.

CFJC Today will have more details when they are made available.

by James Peters

RCMP respond to series of shootings in Merritt area Tuesday

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